PRESS HERALD:
Goodbye againAbout 1,000 people gather in Orono for the send-off for Charlie Company, 126th Aviation Regiment.
Governor's speech to focus on state spending, restructuringHe is trying to offset a deficit, boost compliance with a merger law and promote a jail takeover.
JONATHAN E. KAPLAN, Washington D.C. CorrespondentREPORTER'S NOTEBOOK Obama fails to draw SRO crowd at Dartmouth College
Vigil planned to protest proposed budget cutsAUGUSTA — Advocates for the poor and the elderly will gather in the State House Hall of Flags just before Gov. John Baldacci's State of the State address tonight to protest proposed state budget cuts.
Vermont sees tentative FairPoint dealThe renegotiated plan, which still needs a board's approval, essentially mirrors Maine's stipulation.
BILL NEMITZ: Mainer says Obama can bridge gapsShe's a 53-year-old, left-leaning Democrat. She started telling her friends a few years ago that Barack Obama would be this country's next president.
COLUMN: King controversy perfect fuel for the outrage industry— It almost looked like a misprint: Days after the King Middle School birth-control controversy was selected by readers as the top story of the year, we learned that an effort to recall three of the School Committee members who approved the new policy fell well short of the mark.
EDITORIAL: Bush's economy speech did little to dispel worry
There may not be any easy answers, but a "stay the course" message won't resonate.
LTE: Downeaster a service to all MainersRecent letters from readers in Raymond and West Baldwin and comments from some of Maine's Senate and House members who reside in northern Maine reflect ignorance of the facts about the Downeaster.
LTE: Condoleezza Rice a fine candidate for presidentThe ugly caricature of Condoleezza Rice that was published Dec. 2 was very offensive. The members of the editorial staff should be ashamed of themselves.
BANGOR DAILY NEWS:
School contract issues may modify consolidation plan When the Legislature's Education Committee meets today to consider ways to amend the school consolidation law, one of the thorny issues it will address is the law's requirement that new regional school units unify staff contracts.
Border passport requirement delayedCALAIS - Travelers entering the United States by land this year won't need a passport now that President Bush has signed the omnibus spending bill into law.
Va. company to take a look at PittsfieldPITTSFIELD - The sad fact that Somerset County and Greater Pittsfield have a high level of unemployed and underemployed people turned out to be an attractive quality to a Virginia telemarketing firm.
Baldacci preps speech for todayAUGUSTA - With major financial challenges facing the state, Gov. John Baldacci will outline his vision of the future shape of state government in his State of the State speech Wednesday night.
Today's Editorial:
Medicaid ExaminationWith a federal audit claiming Maine has overspent Medicaid dollars, coupled with impending cuts in federal funding for the health care program and a growing state budget shortfall, lawmakers in Augusta need to examine whether Maine's program is sustainable.
EDITORIAL: Cheney Impeachment
Jim Glavine: Plum Creek proposal should have closer lookThe Plum Creek Timber Co. proposal to rezone thousands of acres in the Moosehead Lake region is the largest in Maine history and one of the largest such rezoning requests ever proposed in this country.
John Buell: U.S.-Peru trade deal adds insult to NAFTA's injury Late last year, in especially untimely action, the U.S. Senate (with Sens. Susan Collins and Olympia Snowe voting yes) ratified the U.S.-Peru Free Trade Agreement.
LTEs: Follow the money; Wasted white space; Saving Moosehead
KENNEBEC JOURNAL:
Gardiner grad stumps for class credit, Obama The campaign for president has been very personal, and very real, for Randolph resident Gregory Clary.
Vigil protesting budget cuts planned before State of State AUGUSTA -- Advocates for the poor and elderly will gather in the Statehouse Hall of Flags tonight just before Gov. John Baldacci's State of the State address to protest proposed state budget cuts.
KJ BLOG
On Maine Politics
The return of Paul Davis? 01/08/08
MORNING SENTINEL:
Grants help Kennebec County plan for disasterAUGUSTA -- The Kennebec County Emergency Management Agency has been awarded three grants totaling $48,900 to continue its work preparing the county's 29 communities and one township for disaster, agency director Kelly Amoroso announced Tuesday.
EDITORIAL: New deal gives FairPoint some financial stabilityWith the approval of the Public Utilities Commission's three members last week, Verizon and FairPoint blew through a significant barrier to their controversial merger. Now, the companies must convince utilities regulators in Vermont and New Hampshire to bless their union as well.
COLUMN: Tax credits may spur projects in old buildingsAbsence makes the heart grow fonder. That saying applies to many things in life. We have found for many people, leaving Maine makes you realize just how special this state is. Our forests, rocky coast, lakes and streams are world class. Our downtown districts, full of historic buildings, are truly one of a kind.
LTE: Maine should take lead on the North Woods Throughout the United States and the world, Maine is known for how it differs from the rest of the United States.
LTE: Real issues facing U.S. don't get enough play
MPBN:
Maine Guard Unit Gets 2nd Deployment to Iraq 130 soldiers are leaving Maine soon as their Army National Guard unit sees its second deployment to Iraq in four years. Today there was an emotional ceremony at Alfond Arena to honor the departing soldiers. Murray Carpenter reports.
Maine Groundfishermen to Battle Feds in Court The battle between Maine groundfishermen and herring trawler operators has shifted to a new arena: federal court. After failing to convince the U.S. Secretary of Commerce to intervene, two groups of groundfishermen, based in Port Clyde and Saco, have filed a lawsuit seeking to ban so-called mid-water herring trawlers from areas closed to groundfishing. Barbara Cariddi reports.
SUN JOURNAL:
FairPoint, Verizon deal clears Vermont hurdleMONTPELIER, Vt. - The state of Vermont reached a tentative settlement Tuesday on FairPoint Communications' proposed $2.7 billion purchase of Verizon Communications' land lines in northern New England, but it still must pass state regulators' muster.
TIMES RECORD:
EDITORIAL: Out with the 'bold'Emboldened by his re-election in November 2006, Gov. John Baldacci promised "bold" leadership throughout his second term.
LTEs: Readers really loved this Editorial about taxes in Maine
PORTSMOUTH HERALD:Navy boss visits yard with budget in mindKITTERY, Maine — U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, toured the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard on Tuesday morning with new Chief of U.S. Naval Operations Adm. Gary Roughead.keepMEcurrent
Key changes urged at school merger rules hearingAUGUSTA (Jan 9, 2008): Pressure is on the Education Committee to propose substantial change to the school consolidation law after a hearing where rural legislators pleaded for help to prevent what they say will be increased costs to taxpayers and loss of local control over their elementary schools.
Prosperity report calls for new budget cuts, tax reformsAUGUSTA (Jan 9, 2008): The committee charged with outlining a plan for Maine's future prosperity has unanimously endorsed a report that calls for creation of a special citizen commission to recommend $75 million in cuts to state government. It also asks the Legislature to take another crack at rebalancing the state's tax code to lower the top income tax rate
At $3.35, heating oil sets new record - againAUGUSTA (Jan 9, 2008): Home heating oil hit another all-time high this week, coming in at an average statewide price of $3.35 per gallon, up 7 cents from last week and $1.09 higher than last year at this time.
BLOGS:
As Maine Goes: Will Schools Close Under Baldacci Consolidation? You Bet! Turn Maine Blue: PPH opinion piece looks back a the King Middle School StoryReaders of the Portland Press Herald ranked the story centered around the decision by the Portland School Board to allow physicians to honor requests from some girls for contraceptives, and the media storm that followed it.
Senate Guru: Maine: The Kennebec Journal's retired editor is awfully mad about millions of dollars of waste and mismanagement in Iraq, but he doesn't blame Susan Collins. Maybe he should.
News of Maine: New YouTube Video From: Collins4Senator - Susan Collins presents medals to WWII veteran
POLITICKERME: Obama's Maine AngleTickmarks: Government Procurement: More Hassles Ahead?An alternative bill by Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) is considered more palatable by contractors; nevertheless, some provisions in the Collins bill are still considered bothersome.
FOSTER'S DAILY DEMOCRAT Collins says she'll try for updated shipyard facilitiesKITTERY, Maine — Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, said the message she'll try to get across to the Chief of U.S. Naval Operations (CNO) Admiral Gary Roughead during his tour of the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Tuesday is the need for some upgraded facilities.
WASHINGTON TIMES:EDITORIAL: Bolstering homeland defense
TELEVISION:WCSH-6Rural Health Care Facilities Receive A Boost From FCCBANGOR (NEWS CENTER) -- The Federal Communications Commission will spend roughly $417 million over the next three years building and upgrading healthcare information networks throughout the United States.WCAX-3 Vermont
Federal grant to promote health care in northern New England BANGOR, Maine (AP) - Officials say health care providers in northern New England will get faster access to the latest medical information through a new regional broadband network. Maine U.S. Senator Susan Collins says the New England Telehealth Consortium network will link 555 rural and urban health care sites throughout Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont.
NASHUA TELEGRAPH:HUD awards $9m to homeless centersAUGUSTA, Maine (AP) – The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development has awarded more than $9 million to homeless care centers in Maine.
Maine News Headline Animator
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Maine News for Tuesday, January 8, 2007
PRESS HERALD:
Utility still challenging CMPA Kennebunk group hopes to take 1,500 CMP customers and add them to the rolls of Kennebunk Light & Power.
Council promises fair, open pier plansAfter last year's rocky review process, the public will be fully informed, Portland officials vow.
Mainers share N.H. primary excitementWith a trip across the state line, they can see candidates up close and personal.
Utility still challenging CMP A Kennebunk group hopes to take 1,500 CMP customers and add them to the rolls of Kennebunk Light & Power.
MAINE VOICES: Maine can be alternative energy leaderHowever, a focus on developing options that aren't based on fossil fuels will require an investment.
COLUMN: State fumbles for new revenues instead of spending cutsOther states have solved their overspending problems, including Oregon.
EDITORIAL: School lunch prices rise, but far faster than cost of livingFuel prices are rising, and help drive other costs higher -- but not by double-digit rates.
MORNING SENTINEL:
Hathaway project set for groundbreaking eventBain said staff members representing U.S. Reps. Tom Allen and Michael Michaud also are expected to speak.
Brother and sister bound for IraqOLD TOWN (AP) -- A brother and sister are among about 130 Maine Army National Guard members poised to deploy to Iraq this week as part of an aviation unit that evacuates injured soldiers and civilians from combat zones.
EDITORIAL: Consolidation should be fixed, not tossed If Maine's school consolidation plan were a child, we'd say it had an unsettled upbringing. And that would explain why the plan is so troublesome now.
COLUMN: Tracking waste of billions of taxpayer dollarsI'm angry. I wrote a check last week to pay the first installment of my federal income taxes for 2008.
KENNEBEC JOURNAL:
Conservative nonprofit hires new leaderAUGUSTA -- The state's leading conservative organization got a new leader Monday who's promising to drive four core issues -- economic vitality, tax policies, health care and education.
AUGUSTA: New leaders, new issues AUGUSTA -- Three new city councilors took the oath of office Monday and promptly found themselves with the task of voting on, among other matters, two issues: singing and dancing, and taxi driving.
Hallowell panel: Housing imperils diversity HALLOWELL -- City officials should be looking for opportunities to encourage less expensive housing to help lower-income families, municipal workers and artists remain a part of the community, members of the Affordable Housing Committee told city councilors Monday.
Rural health care to link up doctorsDoctors, hospitals and other health care providers in rural areas of northern New England will soon be able to share X-rays and other medical images, patients' records and video teleconferences with a new high-speed computer network.
LTE: Real issues facing country don't get enough play Welcome to a presidential primary season, in which most of the blockbuster issues facing our country don't even seem to be on the radar screen. We have a current national debt of $9.1 trillion that none of the candidates is talking about, even though we will face major funding issues for Medicare and Social Security within the term of the next administration.
LTE: There is no sense in the Maine Legislature
Editorials:
Consolidation should be fixed, not tossed If Maine's school consolidation plan were a child, we'd say it had an unsettled upbringing. And that would explain why the plan is so troublesome now.
MPBN:
Government Professor Says Political Ads Mobilize Voting As New Hampshire voters prepare to choose among the various presidential candidates, they're enduring a barrage of last-minute campaign ads. But there could be some gain in their pain, according to a new book co-authored by Bowdoin college government professor Michael Franz. Titled "Campaign Advertising and American Democracy," the book defies conventional wisdom about those ubiquitous 30-second spots that tend to deify candidates and demonize their opponents. Franz told Barbara Cariddi data the authors studied indicates that rather than distorting and debasing the democratic process, political ads actually help educate, engage and mobilize citizens.
Communciation Network to Link Northern New England Hospitals It's a challenge connecting rural Mainers with health care specialists, but a $25 million dollar project announced today should make things a bit easier. The federally funded New England Telehealth Consortium will provide a communication network linking 555 health care sites in Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont. Murray Carpenter reports.
SUN JOURNAL:
EDITORIAL: Letting the ignorant few define us allLet's spare few words for the circulators of the "Mohammed the lost dog" posters in downtown Lewiston. Unless the words are simple, short, contain few syllables and are probably misspelled, it's likely those folks wouldn't understand what they say anyway.
Homeless centers get more than $9MSens. Olympia Snowe and Susan Collins said the money will help homeless people "make the difficult transition from joblessness and homelessness to a better and more productive life."
BANGOR DAILY:
$24.7M grant to expand telemedicine (Picture of Tom)BANGOR, Maine — Thanks to a major federal grant announced Monday by a local telecommunications firm, comprehensive health care will be available closer to home for many Maine residents.
Unions blast PUC approval of FairPoint dealUnion representatives opposing the sale of Verizon's northern New England land lines to FairPoint Communications are railing against the Maine Public Utilities Commission's decision to approve the transaction last week.
Rep. Michaud seeks to impeach Cheney Democratic U.S. Rep. Michael Michaud has called for impeachment hearings into the conduct of Vice President Dick Cheney.
State DEP issues air quality alertState environmental officials have issued an air quality alert for parts of southern, central and eastern Maine due to unusual weather patterns that are trapping dirty air close to the surface.
EDITORIAL: Cost of state benefitsAs state government wrestles over the next 18 months with a revenue shortfall projected at $95 million, it's time to consider the cost of state employee benefits.
EDITORIAL: Emissions stallThe Bush administration is right that a national policy to combat climate change is preferable to a state-by-state patchwork of rules.
John Buell: U.S.-Peru trade deal adds insult to NAFTA's injuryLate last year, in especially untimely action, the U.S. Senate (with Sens. Susan Collins and Olympia Snowe voting yes) ratified the U.S.-Peru Free Trade Agreement. Just as its predecessor, the North American "Free" Trade Agreement, has been coming under increasing scrutiny and criticism even from some of its former advocates, Congress has now extended NAFTA's concepts to one more South American nation.
LTEs: State, cut from within
POLITICKERME.COM
Life’s too short to be a politician
By Jessica Alaimo
After one term, state Rep. Lance Weddell, D-Frankfort, is calling it quits, Village Soup reported today.
PPH in New Hampshire
Jonathan Kaplan of the Portland Press Herald went down to New Hampshire this weekend. Check out his story on the GOP’s growing concern about Barack Obama, a piece on the changing landscape of politics in New Hampshire, and finally read some of his observations here.
THE TIMES RECORD:
Lawmaker pushes bill that limits carbon emissionsAUGUSTA — A bill that would limit carbon dioxide emissions from power plants using coal will be among the bills moving forward during this session of the Maine Legislature.
THE PHOENIX:
Is Laurie Dobson for real?The third party candidate for US Senate, who's running as an independent against Tom Allen and Susan Collins, says that she is.
BLOGS:
Turn Maine Blue: Is the Iraq War really an Issue in Maine? And also that Snowe has called for a date certain to withdraw our troops from Iraq - hardly the words of a supporter of continuing the occupation, and in fact exactly in line with Allen's view.
Collins Watch: A Team PlayerThe brand new Maine Owl blog has a long, detailed post taking us back to 2004 and the oil-for-food scandal, and exploring Sen. Collins' response at the time.
News of Maine: Senator Susan Collins' Campaign Emails Supporters to Vote in Maine News Maine Senate PollandNews of Maine: Important information about our current online pollsAs Maine Goes: Post Michaud's 'Morning After Pill' Bill for Servicewomen In 2002, the Department of Defense initially added emergency contraception to its Basic Care Formulary, a list of over 200 medications required to be stocked at all military treatment facilities.
As Maine Goes: Snowe Campaigning in NH for McCain"It's an important part of (McCain's) strategy to draw support from independent voters to ensure victory," said Maine Republican Sen. Olympia Snowe. Snowe campaigned for McCain over the weekend and will be on hand tonight for a rally in Portsmouth.
Maine Web Report: Hillary: LBJ more important to civil rights than MLKPOLITICKERME: Ron Paul on Maine After the debate this weekend I caught up with Ron Paul to ask what he thought about Maine. He said… well… pretty much what you'd expect, but check it out anyway.
FOSTERS DAILY DEMOCRAT:
Collins to discuss admiral's visit KITTERY, Maine — Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, will visit the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard today to discuss Admiral Gary Roughead, Chief of U.S. Naval Operations' visit to both the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard and Bath Iron Works.
THE BOSTON GLOBE:
Federal grant to promote health care in northern New England U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, who joined Maine Gov. John Baldacci in announcing a $24.7 million Federal Communications Commission grant for the network.
Utility still challenging CMPA Kennebunk group hopes to take 1,500 CMP customers and add them to the rolls of Kennebunk Light & Power.
Council promises fair, open pier plansAfter last year's rocky review process, the public will be fully informed, Portland officials vow.
Mainers share N.H. primary excitementWith a trip across the state line, they can see candidates up close and personal.
Utility still challenging CMP A Kennebunk group hopes to take 1,500 CMP customers and add them to the rolls of Kennebunk Light & Power.
MAINE VOICES: Maine can be alternative energy leaderHowever, a focus on developing options that aren't based on fossil fuels will require an investment.
COLUMN: State fumbles for new revenues instead of spending cutsOther states have solved their overspending problems, including Oregon.
EDITORIAL: School lunch prices rise, but far faster than cost of livingFuel prices are rising, and help drive other costs higher -- but not by double-digit rates.
MORNING SENTINEL:
Hathaway project set for groundbreaking eventBain said staff members representing U.S. Reps. Tom Allen and Michael Michaud also are expected to speak.
Brother and sister bound for IraqOLD TOWN (AP) -- A brother and sister are among about 130 Maine Army National Guard members poised to deploy to Iraq this week as part of an aviation unit that evacuates injured soldiers and civilians from combat zones.
EDITORIAL: Consolidation should be fixed, not tossed If Maine's school consolidation plan were a child, we'd say it had an unsettled upbringing. And that would explain why the plan is so troublesome now.
COLUMN: Tracking waste of billions of taxpayer dollarsI'm angry. I wrote a check last week to pay the first installment of my federal income taxes for 2008.
KENNEBEC JOURNAL:
Conservative nonprofit hires new leaderAUGUSTA -- The state's leading conservative organization got a new leader Monday who's promising to drive four core issues -- economic vitality, tax policies, health care and education.
AUGUSTA: New leaders, new issues AUGUSTA -- Three new city councilors took the oath of office Monday and promptly found themselves with the task of voting on, among other matters, two issues: singing and dancing, and taxi driving.
Hallowell panel: Housing imperils diversity HALLOWELL -- City officials should be looking for opportunities to encourage less expensive housing to help lower-income families, municipal workers and artists remain a part of the community, members of the Affordable Housing Committee told city councilors Monday.
Rural health care to link up doctorsDoctors, hospitals and other health care providers in rural areas of northern New England will soon be able to share X-rays and other medical images, patients' records and video teleconferences with a new high-speed computer network.
LTE: Real issues facing country don't get enough play Welcome to a presidential primary season, in which most of the blockbuster issues facing our country don't even seem to be on the radar screen. We have a current national debt of $9.1 trillion that none of the candidates is talking about, even though we will face major funding issues for Medicare and Social Security within the term of the next administration.
LTE: There is no sense in the Maine Legislature
Editorials:
Consolidation should be fixed, not tossed If Maine's school consolidation plan were a child, we'd say it had an unsettled upbringing. And that would explain why the plan is so troublesome now.
MPBN:
Government Professor Says Political Ads Mobilize Voting As New Hampshire voters prepare to choose among the various presidential candidates, they're enduring a barrage of last-minute campaign ads. But there could be some gain in their pain, according to a new book co-authored by Bowdoin college government professor Michael Franz. Titled "Campaign Advertising and American Democracy," the book defies conventional wisdom about those ubiquitous 30-second spots that tend to deify candidates and demonize their opponents. Franz told Barbara Cariddi data the authors studied indicates that rather than distorting and debasing the democratic process, political ads actually help educate, engage and mobilize citizens.
Communciation Network to Link Northern New England Hospitals It's a challenge connecting rural Mainers with health care specialists, but a $25 million dollar project announced today should make things a bit easier. The federally funded New England Telehealth Consortium will provide a communication network linking 555 health care sites in Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont. Murray Carpenter reports.
SUN JOURNAL:
EDITORIAL: Letting the ignorant few define us allLet's spare few words for the circulators of the "Mohammed the lost dog" posters in downtown Lewiston. Unless the words are simple, short, contain few syllables and are probably misspelled, it's likely those folks wouldn't understand what they say anyway.
Homeless centers get more than $9MSens. Olympia Snowe and Susan Collins said the money will help homeless people "make the difficult transition from joblessness and homelessness to a better and more productive life."
BANGOR DAILY:
$24.7M grant to expand telemedicine (Picture of Tom)BANGOR, Maine — Thanks to a major federal grant announced Monday by a local telecommunications firm, comprehensive health care will be available closer to home for many Maine residents.
Unions blast PUC approval of FairPoint dealUnion representatives opposing the sale of Verizon's northern New England land lines to FairPoint Communications are railing against the Maine Public Utilities Commission's decision to approve the transaction last week.
Rep. Michaud seeks to impeach Cheney Democratic U.S. Rep. Michael Michaud has called for impeachment hearings into the conduct of Vice President Dick Cheney.
State DEP issues air quality alertState environmental officials have issued an air quality alert for parts of southern, central and eastern Maine due to unusual weather patterns that are trapping dirty air close to the surface.
EDITORIAL: Cost of state benefitsAs state government wrestles over the next 18 months with a revenue shortfall projected at $95 million, it's time to consider the cost of state employee benefits.
EDITORIAL: Emissions stallThe Bush administration is right that a national policy to combat climate change is preferable to a state-by-state patchwork of rules.
John Buell: U.S.-Peru trade deal adds insult to NAFTA's injuryLate last year, in especially untimely action, the U.S. Senate (with Sens. Susan Collins and Olympia Snowe voting yes) ratified the U.S.-Peru Free Trade Agreement. Just as its predecessor, the North American "Free" Trade Agreement, has been coming under increasing scrutiny and criticism even from some of its former advocates, Congress has now extended NAFTA's concepts to one more South American nation.
LTEs: State, cut from within
POLITICKERME.COM
Life’s too short to be a politician
By Jessica Alaimo
After one term, state Rep. Lance Weddell, D-Frankfort, is calling it quits, Village Soup reported today.
PPH in New Hampshire
Jonathan Kaplan of the Portland Press Herald went down to New Hampshire this weekend. Check out his story on the GOP’s growing concern about Barack Obama, a piece on the changing landscape of politics in New Hampshire, and finally read some of his observations here.
THE TIMES RECORD:
Lawmaker pushes bill that limits carbon emissionsAUGUSTA — A bill that would limit carbon dioxide emissions from power plants using coal will be among the bills moving forward during this session of the Maine Legislature.
THE PHOENIX:
Is Laurie Dobson for real?The third party candidate for US Senate, who's running as an independent against Tom Allen and Susan Collins, says that she is.
BLOGS:
Turn Maine Blue: Is the Iraq War really an Issue in Maine? And also that Snowe has called for a date certain to withdraw our troops from Iraq - hardly the words of a supporter of continuing the occupation, and in fact exactly in line with Allen's view.
Collins Watch: A Team PlayerThe brand new Maine Owl blog has a long, detailed post taking us back to 2004 and the oil-for-food scandal, and exploring Sen. Collins' response at the time.
News of Maine: Senator Susan Collins' Campaign Emails Supporters to Vote in Maine News Maine Senate PollandNews of Maine: Important information about our current online pollsAs Maine Goes: Post Michaud's 'Morning After Pill' Bill for Servicewomen In 2002, the Department of Defense initially added emergency contraception to its Basic Care Formulary, a list of over 200 medications required to be stocked at all military treatment facilities.
As Maine Goes: Snowe Campaigning in NH for McCain"It's an important part of (McCain's) strategy to draw support from independent voters to ensure victory," said Maine Republican Sen. Olympia Snowe. Snowe campaigned for McCain over the weekend and will be on hand tonight for a rally in Portsmouth.
Maine Web Report: Hillary: LBJ more important to civil rights than MLKPOLITICKERME: Ron Paul on Maine After the debate this weekend I caught up with Ron Paul to ask what he thought about Maine. He said… well… pretty much what you'd expect, but check it out anyway.
FOSTERS DAILY DEMOCRAT:
Collins to discuss admiral's visit KITTERY, Maine — Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, will visit the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard today to discuss Admiral Gary Roughead, Chief of U.S. Naval Operations' visit to both the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard and Bath Iron Works.
THE BOSTON GLOBE:
Federal grant to promote health care in northern New England U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, who joined Maine Gov. John Baldacci in announcing a $24.7 million Federal Communications Commission grant for the network.
Monday, January 7, 2008
Maine News for Monday, January 7, 2008
PRESS HERALD:
GOP turns up heat on ObamaSignaling his new status after winning the Democratic caucuses in Iowa last week, Sen. Barack Obama has become a factor in the New Hampshire Republican primary as some GOP candidates use him as a foil to attack their opponents and to unite their own party.
EDITORIAL: Verizon-FairPoint deal improved, but imperfect Approval by regulators was warranted, but the deal bears scrutiny as it goes forward.
EDITORIAL: Fiscal savings commission could produce results However, they still must succeed politically, which is where the real problem lies.
COLUMN: Involvement in Iraq needs to be looked at more closely Candidates focus on many issues, but the chief one still remains the viability of exporting democracy.
MAINE VOICES: Rain on the Clinton paradeWhy might Democrats not want to nominate the New York senator? The war in Iraq -- and war in general.
LTE: Exodus of Maine residents should be cause for worryThe article, "Maine's population sees 'small but steady growth,' " (Dec. 28) ignored the most important finding of the U.S. Census report – Maine's domestic in-migration has come to an end.
LTE: Let's shed dependence on fossil fuelsSince 2002, the cost of electricity in Maine has increased dramatically. Consumers in our state are now spending nearly $500 million more per year while consuming less. Maine's electricity prices are now among the highest in the nation.
BANGOR DAILY NEWS:
Sex offender registry changes eyed AUGUSTA, Maine — With a growing number of legal challenges to Maine's sex offender registry, members of the Legislature's Criminal Justice Committee are discussing rewriting the law this session creating a new registry system.
Law outlines strategy to fund transportationAUGUSTA, Maine — Sen. Dennis Damon, D-Trenton, chairman of the Transportation Committee, said he was "very relieved" that the Act to Secure Maine's Transportation Future became law this weekend.
Faith not an issue in electionBut religion is unlikely to be a deciding factor, either in the remaining primary and caucus season or in the subsequent presidential race later this year, according to former Republican gubernatorial candidate Chandler Woodcock.
OpEd: Ernie Hilton: Nuclear power not the solutionNuclear power has been touted as a panacea on these pages while obstacles to wind power have been discussed. Meanwhile, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has released a finding that Earth's societies at-large need to be in near complete reversal of current modes of carbon dioxide production by 2012 — four short years, or face the certainty of major disruption of many of Earth's ecosystems including species survival.
Editorial: Grounded expectationsMonday, January 07, 2008The lack of population density has destined BIA to be a feeder airport for regional hubs like Cincinnati and Detroit, Michael Boyd, an aviation consultant working for BIA reported recently.
LTEs: Energy Bill a sham; Consolidation Thoughts; Cherries and Prunes (about Iraq)
KENNEBEC JOURNAL
ICE STORM OF 1998Preparation for disaster is stronger But some towns lack generators AUGUSTA -- Overall, Kennebec County is better prepared today to deal with a natural disaster than it was a decade ago when the great ice storm crippled the state, officials say.
State of the State to provide a 'realistic look' AUGUSTA -- The governor's spokesman says the State of the State, which is set for Wednesday, will offer a "realistic look" at what's going on in Maine.
Candidates contendingwith the Obama factor NASHUA, N.H. -- Signaling his new status as the frontrunner in the New Hampshire Democratic primary, Sen. Barack Obama has become a factor within the Republican primary as some GOP candidates use him as a foil to attack their opponents and to unite their own party.
Editorial: Lesson of '98: Be ready before ice storm starts Are we ready? Those three words should be on everyone's minds this week, the 10-year anniversary of one of Maine's worst natural disasters, the Ice Storm of '98.
OP-Ed: Recycle: It's good forenvironment, makesmoney, saves energy Here's a resolution that's easy to keep. Recycle.
NAOMI SCHALIT : Religion-politics mix gives rise to fear I grew up in a household where among our many guests were older people with tattooed numbers on their arms. They spoke with accents -- Polish, German, French.
LTTE: Minimal LIHEAP aid ensures benefit eligibility One of your readers recently asked whether people living in subsidized housing with heat included also receive heating assistance through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).
MORNING SENTINEL:
State address will offer 'realistic look' at issuesAUGUSTA -- The governor's spokesman says the State of the State, which is set for Wednesday, will offer a "realistic look" at what's going on in Maine.
Maine law students enter battle on downloading, against record labels Lisa Chmelecki and Hannah Ames, friends and third-year students at the University of Maine School of Law in Portland, had never studied copyright law before a few months ago, and were unfamiliar with a historic legal battle brewing on college campuses nationwide.
OpEd: Religion-politics mix gives rise to fearI grew up in a household where among our many guests were older people with tattooed numbers on their arms. They spoke with accents -- Polish, German, French.
LTE: Minimal LIHEAP aid ensures benefit eligibilityOne of your readers recently asked whether people living in subsidized housing with heat included also receive heating assistance through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).
LTE: Money-saving suggestions for state of Maine
SUN JOURNAL:
Three terms, lot of turmoil for trio of city councilors LEWISTON - Norm Rousseau figures he and his outgoing City Council colleagues will be equally praised and condemned for the decisions they've made over the past six years.
LTE: The income divide
MPBN
PUC Approves Verizon-Fairpoint Deal
Late yesterday evening, the state's public utilities commission gave thumbs up to an agreement that paves the way for Fairpoint to acquire Verizon's telecom land lines in Maine. The deal was reached after some high-stakes brinksmanship, and as Murray Carpenter reports, it comes with a number of conditions.
Blethen Newspapers Oppose Bond Request By Times Record Buyer
Maine's largest newspaper chain is opposing a request from the prospective buyers of the Brunswick Times Record for a $7 million tax exempt revenue bond to purchase the coastal daily. As A.J. Higgins reports, Blethen Maine Newspapers says it would be unfair for state goverment to give an edge to one player in an increasingly competitive industry.
TIMES RECORD:
OPINION: Lengthy march to Election Day sorts wheat from chaff Our system for selecting presidential nominees takes a year and a half! For the would-be presidential candidates, it is an endurance contest. For a lot of the public, boredom has set in.
PORTSMOUTH HERALD:
Obama and McCain endorsedAUGUSTA, Maine (AP) — Democrat Barack Obama and Republican John McCain won endorsements Sunday from the Maine Sunday Telegram.
COURIER-GAZETTE
Rockland defends snow dump in harborROCKLAND - The city's practice of dumping snow into Rockland Harbor is under fire from the owner of a cruise ship/restaurant that has docked at a city pier for the past 10 years.
BLOGS:
Turn Maine Blue: John McCain: We should be in Iraq "for a hundred years." David Corn has this great piece about John McCain, in which McCain, at a campaign rally in Derry, NH on 3 Jan 08, says that it be necessary that U.S. troops remain in Iraq for the next hundred years. Watch it yourself:
Maine Owl: Susan Collins and the Oil-for-Food double standardRepublican US Senator in tough re-election bid escorts Iraq reconstruction inspector on PR tour last week, including Bangor appearance; but her inaction on US corruption during 2003 to 2005 (with deadly consequences) while at the same time hammering at the old UN Oil-for-Food program reveals deep hypocrisy
ONLINE JOURNAL:
Now congressional Democrats are attacking free speech
GOP turns up heat on ObamaSignaling his new status after winning the Democratic caucuses in Iowa last week, Sen. Barack Obama has become a factor in the New Hampshire Republican primary as some GOP candidates use him as a foil to attack their opponents and to unite their own party.
EDITORIAL: Verizon-FairPoint deal improved, but imperfect Approval by regulators was warranted, but the deal bears scrutiny as it goes forward.
EDITORIAL: Fiscal savings commission could produce results However, they still must succeed politically, which is where the real problem lies.
COLUMN: Involvement in Iraq needs to be looked at more closely Candidates focus on many issues, but the chief one still remains the viability of exporting democracy.
MAINE VOICES: Rain on the Clinton paradeWhy might Democrats not want to nominate the New York senator? The war in Iraq -- and war in general.
LTE: Exodus of Maine residents should be cause for worryThe article, "Maine's population sees 'small but steady growth,' " (Dec. 28) ignored the most important finding of the U.S. Census report – Maine's domestic in-migration has come to an end.
LTE: Let's shed dependence on fossil fuelsSince 2002, the cost of electricity in Maine has increased dramatically. Consumers in our state are now spending nearly $500 million more per year while consuming less. Maine's electricity prices are now among the highest in the nation.
BANGOR DAILY NEWS:
Sex offender registry changes eyed AUGUSTA, Maine — With a growing number of legal challenges to Maine's sex offender registry, members of the Legislature's Criminal Justice Committee are discussing rewriting the law this session creating a new registry system.
Law outlines strategy to fund transportationAUGUSTA, Maine — Sen. Dennis Damon, D-Trenton, chairman of the Transportation Committee, said he was "very relieved" that the Act to Secure Maine's Transportation Future became law this weekend.
Faith not an issue in electionBut religion is unlikely to be a deciding factor, either in the remaining primary and caucus season or in the subsequent presidential race later this year, according to former Republican gubernatorial candidate Chandler Woodcock.
OpEd: Ernie Hilton: Nuclear power not the solutionNuclear power has been touted as a panacea on these pages while obstacles to wind power have been discussed. Meanwhile, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has released a finding that Earth's societies at-large need to be in near complete reversal of current modes of carbon dioxide production by 2012 — four short years, or face the certainty of major disruption of many of Earth's ecosystems including species survival.
Editorial: Grounded expectationsMonday, January 07, 2008The lack of population density has destined BIA to be a feeder airport for regional hubs like Cincinnati and Detroit, Michael Boyd, an aviation consultant working for BIA reported recently.
LTEs: Energy Bill a sham; Consolidation Thoughts; Cherries and Prunes (about Iraq)
KENNEBEC JOURNAL
ICE STORM OF 1998Preparation for disaster is stronger But some towns lack generators AUGUSTA -- Overall, Kennebec County is better prepared today to deal with a natural disaster than it was a decade ago when the great ice storm crippled the state, officials say.
State of the State to provide a 'realistic look' AUGUSTA -- The governor's spokesman says the State of the State, which is set for Wednesday, will offer a "realistic look" at what's going on in Maine.
Candidates contendingwith the Obama factor NASHUA, N.H. -- Signaling his new status as the frontrunner in the New Hampshire Democratic primary, Sen. Barack Obama has become a factor within the Republican primary as some GOP candidates use him as a foil to attack their opponents and to unite their own party.
Editorial: Lesson of '98: Be ready before ice storm starts Are we ready? Those three words should be on everyone's minds this week, the 10-year anniversary of one of Maine's worst natural disasters, the Ice Storm of '98.
OP-Ed: Recycle: It's good forenvironment, makesmoney, saves energy Here's a resolution that's easy to keep. Recycle.
NAOMI SCHALIT : Religion-politics mix gives rise to fear I grew up in a household where among our many guests were older people with tattooed numbers on their arms. They spoke with accents -- Polish, German, French.
LTTE: Minimal LIHEAP aid ensures benefit eligibility One of your readers recently asked whether people living in subsidized housing with heat included also receive heating assistance through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).
MORNING SENTINEL:
State address will offer 'realistic look' at issuesAUGUSTA -- The governor's spokesman says the State of the State, which is set for Wednesday, will offer a "realistic look" at what's going on in Maine.
Maine law students enter battle on downloading, against record labels Lisa Chmelecki and Hannah Ames, friends and third-year students at the University of Maine School of Law in Portland, had never studied copyright law before a few months ago, and were unfamiliar with a historic legal battle brewing on college campuses nationwide.
OpEd: Religion-politics mix gives rise to fearI grew up in a household where among our many guests were older people with tattooed numbers on their arms. They spoke with accents -- Polish, German, French.
LTE: Minimal LIHEAP aid ensures benefit eligibilityOne of your readers recently asked whether people living in subsidized housing with heat included also receive heating assistance through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).
LTE: Money-saving suggestions for state of Maine
SUN JOURNAL:
Three terms, lot of turmoil for trio of city councilors LEWISTON - Norm Rousseau figures he and his outgoing City Council colleagues will be equally praised and condemned for the decisions they've made over the past six years.
LTE: The income divide
MPBN
PUC Approves Verizon-Fairpoint Deal
Late yesterday evening, the state's public utilities commission gave thumbs up to an agreement that paves the way for Fairpoint to acquire Verizon's telecom land lines in Maine. The deal was reached after some high-stakes brinksmanship, and as Murray Carpenter reports, it comes with a number of conditions.
Blethen Newspapers Oppose Bond Request By Times Record Buyer
Maine's largest newspaper chain is opposing a request from the prospective buyers of the Brunswick Times Record for a $7 million tax exempt revenue bond to purchase the coastal daily. As A.J. Higgins reports, Blethen Maine Newspapers says it would be unfair for state goverment to give an edge to one player in an increasingly competitive industry.
TIMES RECORD:
OPINION: Lengthy march to Election Day sorts wheat from chaff Our system for selecting presidential nominees takes a year and a half! For the would-be presidential candidates, it is an endurance contest. For a lot of the public, boredom has set in.
PORTSMOUTH HERALD:
Obama and McCain endorsedAUGUSTA, Maine (AP) — Democrat Barack Obama and Republican John McCain won endorsements Sunday from the Maine Sunday Telegram.
COURIER-GAZETTE
Rockland defends snow dump in harborROCKLAND - The city's practice of dumping snow into Rockland Harbor is under fire from the owner of a cruise ship/restaurant that has docked at a city pier for the past 10 years.
BLOGS:
Turn Maine Blue: John McCain: We should be in Iraq "for a hundred years." David Corn has this great piece about John McCain, in which McCain, at a campaign rally in Derry, NH on 3 Jan 08, says that it be necessary that U.S. troops remain in Iraq for the next hundred years. Watch it yourself:
Maine Owl: Susan Collins and the Oil-for-Food double standardRepublican US Senator in tough re-election bid escorts Iraq reconstruction inspector on PR tour last week, including Bangor appearance; but her inaction on US corruption during 2003 to 2005 (with deadly consequences) while at the same time hammering at the old UN Oil-for-Food program reveals deep hypocrisy
ONLINE JOURNAL:
Now congressional Democrats are attacking free speech
Friday, January 4, 2008
Maine News for Friday, January 4, 2008
BOSTON GLOBE/AP:
PUC approves Verizon-FairPoint land line deal
After a long day of deliberations, Maine utility regulators Thursday night approved a negotiated agreement allowing FairPoint Communications' $2.7 billion buyout of Verizon's land lines in the three northern New England states. (AP, 1/3/08)
Special panel sketches outline for promoting prosperity
Legislative leaders and rank-and-file negotiators hailed a bipartisan agreement by a special legislative panel Thursday that they said was designed to foster economic well-being for Maine in the years ahead.
PRESS HERALD:
Repeal supporters: '15,000 to go' The group trying to repeal the school consolidation law faces a deadline for legislative review.
No deadlines in Iraq, says Collins (Published in the Morning Sentinel as well)
Sen. Susan Collins of Maine sharpened the distinction with her opponent in this year's election, Rep. Tom Allen, noting on Thursday that she remains opposed to any deadlines for withdrawing troops from Iraq.
Verizon sale to FairPoint approved PUC
Vermont and New Hampshire regulators and the FCC must give their approvals for the sale to become final.
Authority to set up at BNAS
The group overseeing reuse plans for the Brunswick air station is moving to the base.
Web site lets you keep tabs on lobbyists
AUGUSTA — Do you want to keep tabs on how Maine's more than 300 lobbyists earn a living but don't have the time to hang out at the State House?
Large wind farm proposal wins approval
AUGUSTA — Maine's wilderness zoning board has given final approval to a 57-megawatt wind farm in northern Washington County, which would be the largest such project in New England.
Bill would crack down on metal theft
A lawmaker from Bowdoinham wants to crack down on thefts of copper and other metals by requiring scrap dealers to verify where the metal comes from and who is selling it to them.
Preliminary agreement on fiscal reform draws praise
An efficiency panel seeking $75 million in savings is a key part of the plan for the state.
EDITORIAL: A little shift in Medicaid can bring big trouble
A dispute with the federal government over its share of the program could add up fast.
State court records belong where public can see them Maine is long overdue in its efforts to make court records available online.
Oil touches $100 a barrel, and the impact shows up everywhere While gas prices are expected to rise by summer, the cost of heat is going up now.
MAINE VOICES: Rail expansion tied to Downeaster funding
Future freight and passenger traffic could be lost if the state passes up its present opportunity.
LTE: Baldacci's budget cuts harmful to those in need
With regards to Gov. Baldacci's recent budget cuts, a $95 million shortfall was not brought about by the Department of Education or teachers' salaries.
LTE: Mainers can act to save Moosehead from developers
Shame, shame, we have all been asleep at the switch, for years, while land speculators assessed our beautiful Moosehead, Lily Bay, Long Pond and Greenville area.
LTE: Somalis should protest in their own country
Why is it that I get really upset when I see Somalis protesting in the streets?
BANGOR DAILY NEWS:
Inspector: Iraq rebuilding has mixed success
BANGOR - The U.S. government's top auditor of reconstruction efforts in Iraq described his staff's job Thursday as providing "oversight under fire" in a high-stakes arena replete with successes and failures.
FairPoint deal gets green light from state PUC
AUGUSTA - Almost a year after it was first announced, FairPoint Communications' proposal to buy Verizon's northern New England telephone and Internet land lines was approved unanimously by Maine regulators late Thursday night.
Obama, Huckabee victors in Iowa
EDITORIAL: New villages needed
Thousands of Mainers work within sight or smell of salt water, but when it's time to go home, they have to drive miles away from that water. The shortage of affordable housing, particularly along the coast and in southern Maine, could become a geographical class divide if planners do not act to counter this trend.
EDITORIAL: Budget balancing act
As lawmakers begin a new session in Augusta this week, the state's growing budget shortfall will demand much of their time and attention.
Op-Ed: Bhutto's democracy false
Of all the understandings of the democratic idea, none could be more wrong than this one. Democracy at its very core is an antidote to the kind of dynastic revenge young Bhutto was suggesting.
LTEs: Don't tax airplanes; School Consolidation; Repeal Consolidation
KENNEBEC JOURNAL:
CONSOLIDATIONWindsor votes Chelsea into unit WINDSOR -- The Windsor School Committee voted unanimously Wednesday to include Chelsea in a new seven-town regional school unit.
FAME asked to issue bond for newspaper The new owners of The Times Record, a daily newspaper in Brunswick, are asking the Finance Authority of Maine to issue a $7 million revenue bond to finance the purchase of the newspaper's publishing facility in Brunswick.
MORNING SENTINEL:
Mainer to receive medals for Bay of Pigs mission
Jack Hegarty of Dennistown Plantation, in northern Somerset County, was a 21-year-old sailor in the U.S. Navy when he and his mates shipped out for Cuba in April 1961.
COLUMN: Candidates should think more about governing than winning
More than 2,500 journalists were accredited to cover the Iowa caucuses. More than one reporter for every 100 caucus attendees, a ludicrous amount of attention for a state and a process that, were it not for the concentrated output of these men and women, would say little about how we will be governed after the next election.
LTE: Radical Muslims' actions justify U.S. policy
It is about time some of you people out there realize that this is exactly what these radical Muslims want anyone who is not a Muslim want to do -- die.
KENNEBEC JOURNAL:
LTE: Plum Creek's plan may inspire others
SUN JOURNAL:
Smokers fired up over 'safe' butts
Months after slower-burning cigarettes began appearing on store shelves, the impact they have on the smoker depends largely on who you ask.
Posters harass Muslims
Several copies of a harassing, anti-Muslim poster appeared Thursday outside a downtown Somali-owned store.
EDITORIAL: Maybe judges should be elected to the bench
COLUMN: Without U.S. involvement, peace efforts are doomed
When President Bush arrives in Jerusalem next week, he will step into a fledgling peace process already set up to fail. His brief, photo-op visit will likely do little but sustain the illusion of progress for the few days he is there.
MPBN:
Lawmakers Applaud Plan To Jumpstart Economy
After a lengthy deliberation, the Legislature's Committee on Future Maine Prosperity has voted unanimously to endorse a plan to jumpstart the state's economy. Although details of the proposal are still being assembled, a key component is a $75 million reduction in state spending and the creation of a tax relief fund. Democratic and Republican leaders in the Legislature are applauding the recommendations, but as A.J. Higgins reports, bipartisanship could quickly dissolve over budget cuts and taxes.
Same-Sex Couples Surprised By New Law's Loophole
In New Hampshire, civil unions became legal as the clock struck midnight New Years Eve. As many same-sex couples held ceremonies and celebrated, others were shocked to discover they won't get the same benefits afforded to married couples. New Hampshire Public Radio's Amy Quinton reports.
TIMES RECORD:
COLUMN: Can tax reform provide relief?
If there has been a defining issue to Maine politics over the past decade, it is our tax system and the desire to change it. Both in referendums and at the Legislature, it is hard to find any terms used more frequently than "tax reform" and "tax relief."
Bath pursues biz park growth
BATH — The city of Bath is closing in on the early stages of a Wing Farm Parkway expansion, where City Manager William Giroux hopes Phase 2 of the business park development can at least equal the 150 jobs created by Phase 1.
Lawmakers to review Legislature's budget for savings to reduce deficit
The Legislature plans to do its part to reduce the state's budget deficit, but doesn't want to be told by the governor how much to give.
keepMEcurrent
Senate president: State must consider tax increase
Senate President Beth Edmonds said a tax or fee increase or some other revenue source should at least be considered to fill the state's budget hole because further cuts in social services will harm Maine citizens – a posture the Senate minority leader says is a non-starter with
PolitickerME.com
A Unanimous Report for the Prosperity Committee?!
Two points for Senator Jon Courtney, the Republican from Sanford. Apparently Senator Courtney was instrumental in pulling off the impossible
Michaud supports Cheney impeachment
U.S. Rep. Mike Michaud has announced his support for the impeachment hearings of Vice President Dick Cheney.
Raye family to lead Giuliani campaign
Republican BLOGS:
Perspectives on Iraq and the Maine Senate race
The Portland Press Herald ran an op-ed by Edward Erickson, a graduate student from Bowdoinham, that lays out an interesting perspective on the relationship of the Iraq War to the upcoming Maine Senate contest:
Collins Watch: Hmm
Why is Sen. Collins accompanying the Special Inspector General for Iraq Reconstruction--an executive branch employee--to meetings with the editorial boards of the Portland Press Herald and Bangor Daily News?
As Maine Goes: Sen. Courtney's Proposal to Cut $75M from State Budget
Augusta – Late last night the Prosperity Committee unanimously approved Senator Jon Courtney's (R-York) proposal to cut $75 million from the state budget. Senator Courtney's plan meets the goals put forth in the Brookings Report which called for an independent commission to find savings. The plan also offers tax relief by investing the budget savings in the Maine Tax Relief Fund.
As Maine Goes: How Does This School Consolidation Save Money?
AUBURN - The Auburn School Committee voted unanimously to make interim Superintendent Tom Morrill the superintendent for the rest of his contract, or until June 2010. Morrill's annual salary of $103,000 will not change.
As Maine Goes: Giuliani Announces Maine Leadership Team
As Maine Goes: Romney Announces Maine Statewide Steering Committee
Maine News: Senate Poll (Updated Results)
Tom Allen: 57%Laurie Dobson: 34%Susan Collins: 8%
WHITE NOISE INSANITY: Will gas reach $4/gallon this winter? Oh probably. George Bush, The Decider, has decided that he won't tap into our nation's oil reserves to bring the price of oil down. Why? Because he hates Americans as we witnessed shortly after the levees broke down in New Orleans after Katrina had devastated the whole Gulf Coast.
NEW HAMPSHIRE BUSINESS REVIEW:
High diesel prices have a troubling ripple effect Congress is working to address the issue on several fronts. U.S. Sen. Olympia Snowe and U.S. Rep. Tom Allen of Maine, along with New Hampshire's two representatives in Congress, Paul Hodes and Carol Shea-Porter, have co-sponsored several bills, either passed or pending.
AVIATION WEEK:
Bush Defense Authorization Veto CoBush Defense Authorization Veto Could Hamper Contracting ReformsSusan Collins, a Maine Republican on the panel, called Bush's decision "extremely disappointing," noting the legislation includes "a pay raise for our .
PUC approves Verizon-FairPoint land line deal
After a long day of deliberations, Maine utility regulators Thursday night approved a negotiated agreement allowing FairPoint Communications' $2.7 billion buyout of Verizon's land lines in the three northern New England states. (AP, 1/3/08)
Special panel sketches outline for promoting prosperity
Legislative leaders and rank-and-file negotiators hailed a bipartisan agreement by a special legislative panel Thursday that they said was designed to foster economic well-being for Maine in the years ahead.
PRESS HERALD:
Repeal supporters: '15,000 to go' The group trying to repeal the school consolidation law faces a deadline for legislative review.
No deadlines in Iraq, says Collins (Published in the Morning Sentinel as well)
Sen. Susan Collins of Maine sharpened the distinction with her opponent in this year's election, Rep. Tom Allen, noting on Thursday that she remains opposed to any deadlines for withdrawing troops from Iraq.
Verizon sale to FairPoint approved PUC
Vermont and New Hampshire regulators and the FCC must give their approvals for the sale to become final.
Authority to set up at BNAS
The group overseeing reuse plans for the Brunswick air station is moving to the base.
Web site lets you keep tabs on lobbyists
AUGUSTA — Do you want to keep tabs on how Maine's more than 300 lobbyists earn a living but don't have the time to hang out at the State House?
Large wind farm proposal wins approval
AUGUSTA — Maine's wilderness zoning board has given final approval to a 57-megawatt wind farm in northern Washington County, which would be the largest such project in New England.
Bill would crack down on metal theft
A lawmaker from Bowdoinham wants to crack down on thefts of copper and other metals by requiring scrap dealers to verify where the metal comes from and who is selling it to them.
Preliminary agreement on fiscal reform draws praise
An efficiency panel seeking $75 million in savings is a key part of the plan for the state.
EDITORIAL: A little shift in Medicaid can bring big trouble
A dispute with the federal government over its share of the program could add up fast.
State court records belong where public can see them Maine is long overdue in its efforts to make court records available online.
Oil touches $100 a barrel, and the impact shows up everywhere While gas prices are expected to rise by summer, the cost of heat is going up now.
MAINE VOICES: Rail expansion tied to Downeaster funding
Future freight and passenger traffic could be lost if the state passes up its present opportunity.
LTE: Baldacci's budget cuts harmful to those in need
With regards to Gov. Baldacci's recent budget cuts, a $95 million shortfall was not brought about by the Department of Education or teachers' salaries.
LTE: Mainers can act to save Moosehead from developers
Shame, shame, we have all been asleep at the switch, for years, while land speculators assessed our beautiful Moosehead, Lily Bay, Long Pond and Greenville area.
LTE: Somalis should protest in their own country
Why is it that I get really upset when I see Somalis protesting in the streets?
BANGOR DAILY NEWS:
Inspector: Iraq rebuilding has mixed success
BANGOR - The U.S. government's top auditor of reconstruction efforts in Iraq described his staff's job Thursday as providing "oversight under fire" in a high-stakes arena replete with successes and failures.
FairPoint deal gets green light from state PUC
AUGUSTA - Almost a year after it was first announced, FairPoint Communications' proposal to buy Verizon's northern New England telephone and Internet land lines was approved unanimously by Maine regulators late Thursday night.
Obama, Huckabee victors in Iowa
EDITORIAL: New villages needed
Thousands of Mainers work within sight or smell of salt water, but when it's time to go home, they have to drive miles away from that water. The shortage of affordable housing, particularly along the coast and in southern Maine, could become a geographical class divide if planners do not act to counter this trend.
EDITORIAL: Budget balancing act
As lawmakers begin a new session in Augusta this week, the state's growing budget shortfall will demand much of their time and attention.
Op-Ed: Bhutto's democracy false
Of all the understandings of the democratic idea, none could be more wrong than this one. Democracy at its very core is an antidote to the kind of dynastic revenge young Bhutto was suggesting.
LTEs: Don't tax airplanes; School Consolidation; Repeal Consolidation
KENNEBEC JOURNAL:
CONSOLIDATIONWindsor votes Chelsea into unit WINDSOR -- The Windsor School Committee voted unanimously Wednesday to include Chelsea in a new seven-town regional school unit.
FAME asked to issue bond for newspaper The new owners of The Times Record, a daily newspaper in Brunswick, are asking the Finance Authority of Maine to issue a $7 million revenue bond to finance the purchase of the newspaper's publishing facility in Brunswick.
MORNING SENTINEL:
Mainer to receive medals for Bay of Pigs mission
Jack Hegarty of Dennistown Plantation, in northern Somerset County, was a 21-year-old sailor in the U.S. Navy when he and his mates shipped out for Cuba in April 1961.
COLUMN: Candidates should think more about governing than winning
More than 2,500 journalists were accredited to cover the Iowa caucuses. More than one reporter for every 100 caucus attendees, a ludicrous amount of attention for a state and a process that, were it not for the concentrated output of these men and women, would say little about how we will be governed after the next election.
LTE: Radical Muslims' actions justify U.S. policy
It is about time some of you people out there realize that this is exactly what these radical Muslims want anyone who is not a Muslim want to do -- die.
KENNEBEC JOURNAL:
LTE: Plum Creek's plan may inspire others
SUN JOURNAL:
Smokers fired up over 'safe' butts
Months after slower-burning cigarettes began appearing on store shelves, the impact they have on the smoker depends largely on who you ask.
Posters harass Muslims
Several copies of a harassing, anti-Muslim poster appeared Thursday outside a downtown Somali-owned store.
EDITORIAL: Maybe judges should be elected to the bench
COLUMN: Without U.S. involvement, peace efforts are doomed
When President Bush arrives in Jerusalem next week, he will step into a fledgling peace process already set up to fail. His brief, photo-op visit will likely do little but sustain the illusion of progress for the few days he is there.
MPBN:
Lawmakers Applaud Plan To Jumpstart Economy
After a lengthy deliberation, the Legislature's Committee on Future Maine Prosperity has voted unanimously to endorse a plan to jumpstart the state's economy. Although details of the proposal are still being assembled, a key component is a $75 million reduction in state spending and the creation of a tax relief fund. Democratic and Republican leaders in the Legislature are applauding the recommendations, but as A.J. Higgins reports, bipartisanship could quickly dissolve over budget cuts and taxes.
Same-Sex Couples Surprised By New Law's Loophole
In New Hampshire, civil unions became legal as the clock struck midnight New Years Eve. As many same-sex couples held ceremonies and celebrated, others were shocked to discover they won't get the same benefits afforded to married couples. New Hampshire Public Radio's Amy Quinton reports.
TIMES RECORD:
COLUMN: Can tax reform provide relief?
If there has been a defining issue to Maine politics over the past decade, it is our tax system and the desire to change it. Both in referendums and at the Legislature, it is hard to find any terms used more frequently than "tax reform" and "tax relief."
Bath pursues biz park growth
BATH — The city of Bath is closing in on the early stages of a Wing Farm Parkway expansion, where City Manager William Giroux hopes Phase 2 of the business park development can at least equal the 150 jobs created by Phase 1.
Lawmakers to review Legislature's budget for savings to reduce deficit
The Legislature plans to do its part to reduce the state's budget deficit, but doesn't want to be told by the governor how much to give.
keepMEcurrent
Senate president: State must consider tax increase
Senate President Beth Edmonds said a tax or fee increase or some other revenue source should at least be considered to fill the state's budget hole because further cuts in social services will harm Maine citizens – a posture the Senate minority leader says is a non-starter with
PolitickerME.com
A Unanimous Report for the Prosperity Committee?!
Two points for Senator Jon Courtney, the Republican from Sanford. Apparently Senator Courtney was instrumental in pulling off the impossible
Michaud supports Cheney impeachment
U.S. Rep. Mike Michaud has announced his support for the impeachment hearings of Vice President Dick Cheney.
Raye family to lead Giuliani campaign
Republican BLOGS:
Perspectives on Iraq and the Maine Senate race
The Portland Press Herald ran an op-ed by Edward Erickson, a graduate student from Bowdoinham, that lays out an interesting perspective on the relationship of the Iraq War to the upcoming Maine Senate contest:
Collins Watch: Hmm
Why is Sen. Collins accompanying the Special Inspector General for Iraq Reconstruction--an executive branch employee--to meetings with the editorial boards of the Portland Press Herald and Bangor Daily News?
As Maine Goes: Sen. Courtney's Proposal to Cut $75M from State Budget
Augusta – Late last night the Prosperity Committee unanimously approved Senator Jon Courtney's (R-York) proposal to cut $75 million from the state budget. Senator Courtney's plan meets the goals put forth in the Brookings Report which called for an independent commission to find savings. The plan also offers tax relief by investing the budget savings in the Maine Tax Relief Fund.
As Maine Goes: How Does This School Consolidation Save Money?
AUBURN - The Auburn School Committee voted unanimously to make interim Superintendent Tom Morrill the superintendent for the rest of his contract, or until June 2010. Morrill's annual salary of $103,000 will not change.
As Maine Goes: Giuliani Announces Maine Leadership Team
As Maine Goes: Romney Announces Maine Statewide Steering Committee
Maine News: Senate Poll (Updated Results)
Tom Allen: 57%Laurie Dobson: 34%Susan Collins: 8%
WHITE NOISE INSANITY: Will gas reach $4/gallon this winter? Oh probably. George Bush, The Decider, has decided that he won't tap into our nation's oil reserves to bring the price of oil down. Why? Because he hates Americans as we witnessed shortly after the levees broke down in New Orleans after Katrina had devastated the whole Gulf Coast.
NEW HAMPSHIRE BUSINESS REVIEW:
High diesel prices have a troubling ripple effect Congress is working to address the issue on several fronts. U.S. Sen. Olympia Snowe and U.S. Rep. Tom Allen of Maine, along with New Hampshire's two representatives in Congress, Paul Hodes and Carol Shea-Porter, have co-sponsored several bills, either passed or pending.
AVIATION WEEK:
Bush Defense Authorization Veto CoBush Defense Authorization Veto Could Hamper Contracting ReformsSusan Collins, a Maine Republican on the panel, called Bush's decision "extremely disappointing," noting the legislation includes "a pay raise for our .
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Maine News for Thursday, January 3, 2008
PRESS HERALD:
As session convenes, big issues hold sway
Short ceremonies are followed by a committee meetingoncuts aimed at balancing the budget.
Cross country case at standstill, police say
Officers investigating a claim that a man threw something in the eyes of a runner at a high school cross country meet have no leads, even after reviewing 3,500 videos and photos from the competition.
Maine joins suit over auto emissions
Maine joined California and 15 other states and sued the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency on Wednesday for preventing the states from setting greenhouse gas limits for vehicles.
Audit alleges Medicaid mistakes
A federal audit says that Maine overcharged the Medicaid program, which is funded jointly by the state and federal governments, by $44.2 million in 2002 and 2003 and that the state should reimburse the federal government $29.7 million for its share.
Push made to post court data on Web
Maine's judicial branch aims to make documents available while protecting privacy.
Unisys picked to handle MaineCare computers
The move will displace about 100 state jobs, but many people may be hired by the contractor.
EDITORIAL: NASA air-safety report should be fully available
The agency's actions reek of institutional arrogance and disregard for the public good.
EDITORIAL: Scant support for recall doesn't mean approval
Undoing the voters' choices for Portland School Committee would have been a big step.
MAINE VOICES: Moosehead's past outdoes Plum Creek
One hundred years ago, a trip from Greenville to Seboomook by boat would reveal a level of economic development that would boggle the mind of today's conservationist, preservationist or protectionist.
New Hampshire takes the right path with same-sex unions
This matter belongs in a state legislature, and soon it may be Maine's time to debate it.
LTE: Don't waste funding on Downeaster
LTE: Readers dispute wall separating church, state
BANGOR DAILY:
Prayers, taps herald 2008 legislative sessionThursday, January 03, 2008AUGUSTA, Maine - The sounds of prayers, the national anthem and taps ceremonially opened Maine's 2008 legislative session on Wednesday. But behind the pageantry was a sobering assessment of state finances facing lawmakers as they get down to work.
Bangor: Chamber plans annual events
Susan Collins will receive the Public Service Award, sponsored by Husson College.
Maine Senate '08 session opens with warning
Maine Senate President Beth Edmonds, welcoming colleagues back to the State House as the 2008 legislative session opened Wednesday, warned lawmakers "there is a very hard winter ahead" and that in rebalancing the budget they must recognize "we have cut all the fat" already.
School group's deadline nears
The group seeking to repeal the state's school consolidation law will make a final push this month to collect the required number of signatures on petitions that would bring the repeal issue to legislators or to a referendum vote.
EDITORIAL: Budget balancing act
As lawmakers begin a new session in Augusta this week, the state's growing budget shortfall will demand much of their time and attention. Gov. John Baldacci, through an executive order last month, has already outlined much of his blueprint for cost cutting with more to come when he unveils his supplemental budget next week.
Ralph Chapman: Schools' day of reckoning
Then, last spring with warmer weather coming, school years' end within sight, and several months of acclimating to the reality that our newly re-elected Democratic governor was trying to implement his secret before-the-election school consolidation plan, only the Legislature stood ready to inject some reason into the political processes that seemed to have gone so astray.
LTEs: Silence is Complicity; In defence of Israel; Cut-off from troops
Recovering soldiers and marines at Walter Reed Hospital are definitely more secure, thanks to Homeland Security. They won't be threatened by Christmas and holiday cards sent from supportive and appreciative Americans. This will hearten and reassure those wounded men and women now fighting to regain a sense of well-being.
KENNEBEC JOURNAL
Lawmakers expecting 'tough year'
AUGUSTA -- Liam Knowles came to the Statehouse Wednesday to watch his granddad, Ralph W. Sarty Jr. of Denmark, take the oath of office.
School, budget, insurance issues await
AUGUSTA -- The budget, school consolidation, energy costs and health insurance all made the list of major topics lawmakers plan to tackle this session.
State disputing claimof Medicaid overcharges
AUGUSTA -- A new federal audit says Maine overcharged the Medicaid program, which is funded jointly by the state and federal governments, by $44.2 million in 2002 and 2003 and the state should reimburse the federal government $29.7 million for its share. But state officials insist that Maine's Bureau of Child and Family Services calculated the costs correctly so the state does not owe the federal government a refund.
Jail readyto staff up
AUGUSTA -- Uncooperative inmates and double shifts are part of the job for Kennebec County sheriff's deputies, but relief is in sight now that the hiring of 16 new corrections officers has been approved.
Maine courtsstumble online
If you want to see a document from a case in Maine's court system, you have to visit the appropriate county courthouse, wait in line and review the hard copy. In some instances, you need a docket number or other information to find the file.
Editorials:
Historic sitesbill is investmentin Maine's future
The sight of empty brick mills and other old industrial buildings -- windows broken, pigeons perched on the roof -- is all too commonplace in Maine. Across the state, these symbols of our state's vibrant past have been abandoned and deemed too expensive for developers to rehabilitate. And when they lie unused and deteriorating, they can suck the life from their towns and cities.
JIM BRUNELLE : Lawmakers need spirit ofJanuary to conquer problems
This is my time of year, the season of optimism and cycle of the fresh start.
MORNING SENTINTEL:
Maine courts moving to put records online
If you want to see a document from a case in Maine's court system, you have to visit the appropriate county courthouse, wait in line and review the hard copy. In some instances, you need a docket number or other information to find the file.
EDITORIAL: Historic sites bill is investment in Maine's future
Veteran: Care received at Togus is 'excellent'
SUN JOURNAL:
Firefighters get grants from feds
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced Wednesday it has awarded $869,626 in grants to nine Maine fire departments. The money is provided through the "Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program," a news release from U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, D-Maine, stated.
LTE: Crisis centers need funding
Gov. Baldacci recently curtailed $38 million to balance the state budget, including money earmarked by the Legislature for the prevention of sexual and domestic violence initiatives.
MPBN:
Snowfall Strains Municipal Budgets Statewide
It's been snowing in Maine--more than usual for this time of year. According to the National Weather Service, Portland residents shoveled and plowed nearly 40 inches of snow in December, making it the city's 3rd snowiest December on record. Barbara Cariddi reports.
Feds To Cut Drug Enforcement Funding To Maine
At a time when Maine is seeing more drug-related homicides - five in 2007- and more drug related violence than ever before, the federal government is slashing funds used to support the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency and drug prosecutors in district attorneys' offices around the state. The cuts are not unique to Maine, but as Susan Sharon reports, a state budget shortfall and other fiscal contraints are likely to make it even more challenging to fund Maine's war on drugs.
Maine Legislature Opens Its Doors For Business
Maine lawmakers returned to the State House today vowing to make finances their top priority as they weigh a budget deficit totalling 95 million dollars over the next two years. A little more than a third of that have will have to be closed prior to the end of the fiscal year in June, and lawmakers are gearing up for some intense debate over how to achieve those savings. A.J. Higgins reports.
THE TIMES RECORD:
'Big box' study law scrutinized A law passed in 2007 designed to make it tougher for big-box stores to come into town and take business away from local retailers will be up for discussion again in 2008, with an amendment proposed to allow communities to opt out of the new rule.
Clipped wingsMaine's tax policy reads more like political satire every day, but it's no laughing matter. It's embarrassing.
COURIER-GAZETTE:
'Kiddie' tax grows up
If you had a plan to shift some of your tax burden to your youngster, it's time to consider devising a Plan B. Due to Congressional action last year that officially extended childhood from age 14 to age 18 for purposes of calculating tax on invested income, the so-called "kiddie tax" is growing up.
THE ELLSWORTH AMERICAN:
Local Control Battle Looms In Augusta
AUGUSTA — With legislators returning this week to continue their debate on the new school consolidation law, expect a battle over allowing local school committees to maintain control over their kindergarten through grade 8 schools in newly formed "super unions."
EDITORIAL: The Consolidation Debacle
BLOGS:
As Maine Goes: Dem Consensus on Redistribution of Income"There's a real Democratic consensus now," said Rep. Barney Frank. The "reality of stagnant income for most Americans" is shaping Democratic priorities. "What you've got, essentially, is a movement on the Democratic side [toward] the view that growth alone is not enough, and concern about the distribution of income has to be part of the equation."
As Maine Goes: Bye Bye, Light Bulb Just like that--like flipping a switch--Congress and the president banned incandescent light bulbs last month. OK, they did not exactly ban them. But the energy bill passed by Congress and signed by President Bush sets energy-efficiency standards for light bulbs that traditional incandescent bulbs cannot meet.
Maine Web Report: Phase 2 of the Baldacci Tourism Marketing PlanGovernor Baldacci's efforts to accelerate a small-business diaspora continue. This time, Baldacci's economic stormtroopers are trying to stamp out the last vestiges of potential tourism revenue from airfield hangers across the state. Here's the AP report:
Turn Maine Blue: Portland ME Schools and Birth Control--UpdateThe right wing made two attempts to challenge this, and both have failed.
Turn Maine Blue: Open ThreadMaine Today is reporting that Maine has joined California in suing the EPA over its recent ruling to not grant a waiver that would set a higher NOx standard than that of the Fed.
Maine News: "Poll: If the election were held today, who would you vote for in the Maine Senate Race? (Alphabetical)" As of Wednesday, January 2 at 11:30 pm, the results of the poll were as follows:Laurie Dobson 70%Tom Allen 25%Susan Collins 3%
EarthNews: EPA approves Northeast states' mercury plan Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Joseph Lieberman (I-Conn.), have called for stronger federal regulation of mercury.
2 Jan 08 January, USA National Stalking Awareness Month Washington, DC U.S. Senators Joseph R. Biden, Jr. (D-DE) and Susan Collins (R-ME) introduced a resolution designating January as National Stalking Awareness Month.
As session convenes, big issues hold sway
Short ceremonies are followed by a committee meetingoncuts aimed at balancing the budget.
Cross country case at standstill, police say
Officers investigating a claim that a man threw something in the eyes of a runner at a high school cross country meet have no leads, even after reviewing 3,500 videos and photos from the competition.
Maine joins suit over auto emissions
Maine joined California and 15 other states and sued the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency on Wednesday for preventing the states from setting greenhouse gas limits for vehicles.
Audit alleges Medicaid mistakes
A federal audit says that Maine overcharged the Medicaid program, which is funded jointly by the state and federal governments, by $44.2 million in 2002 and 2003 and that the state should reimburse the federal government $29.7 million for its share.
Push made to post court data on Web
Maine's judicial branch aims to make documents available while protecting privacy.
Unisys picked to handle MaineCare computers
The move will displace about 100 state jobs, but many people may be hired by the contractor.
EDITORIAL: NASA air-safety report should be fully available
The agency's actions reek of institutional arrogance and disregard for the public good.
EDITORIAL: Scant support for recall doesn't mean approval
Undoing the voters' choices for Portland School Committee would have been a big step.
MAINE VOICES: Moosehead's past outdoes Plum Creek
One hundred years ago, a trip from Greenville to Seboomook by boat would reveal a level of economic development that would boggle the mind of today's conservationist, preservationist or protectionist.
New Hampshire takes the right path with same-sex unions
This matter belongs in a state legislature, and soon it may be Maine's time to debate it.
LTE: Don't waste funding on Downeaster
LTE: Readers dispute wall separating church, state
BANGOR DAILY:
Prayers, taps herald 2008 legislative sessionThursday, January 03, 2008AUGUSTA, Maine - The sounds of prayers, the national anthem and taps ceremonially opened Maine's 2008 legislative session on Wednesday. But behind the pageantry was a sobering assessment of state finances facing lawmakers as they get down to work.
Bangor: Chamber plans annual events
Susan Collins will receive the Public Service Award, sponsored by Husson College.
Maine Senate '08 session opens with warning
Maine Senate President Beth Edmonds, welcoming colleagues back to the State House as the 2008 legislative session opened Wednesday, warned lawmakers "there is a very hard winter ahead" and that in rebalancing the budget they must recognize "we have cut all the fat" already.
School group's deadline nears
The group seeking to repeal the state's school consolidation law will make a final push this month to collect the required number of signatures on petitions that would bring the repeal issue to legislators or to a referendum vote.
EDITORIAL: Budget balancing act
As lawmakers begin a new session in Augusta this week, the state's growing budget shortfall will demand much of their time and attention. Gov. John Baldacci, through an executive order last month, has already outlined much of his blueprint for cost cutting with more to come when he unveils his supplemental budget next week.
Ralph Chapman: Schools' day of reckoning
Then, last spring with warmer weather coming, school years' end within sight, and several months of acclimating to the reality that our newly re-elected Democratic governor was trying to implement his secret before-the-election school consolidation plan, only the Legislature stood ready to inject some reason into the political processes that seemed to have gone so astray.
LTEs: Silence is Complicity; In defence of Israel; Cut-off from troops
Recovering soldiers and marines at Walter Reed Hospital are definitely more secure, thanks to Homeland Security. They won't be threatened by Christmas and holiday cards sent from supportive and appreciative Americans. This will hearten and reassure those wounded men and women now fighting to regain a sense of well-being.
KENNEBEC JOURNAL
Lawmakers expecting 'tough year'
AUGUSTA -- Liam Knowles came to the Statehouse Wednesday to watch his granddad, Ralph W. Sarty Jr. of Denmark, take the oath of office.
School, budget, insurance issues await
AUGUSTA -- The budget, school consolidation, energy costs and health insurance all made the list of major topics lawmakers plan to tackle this session.
State disputing claimof Medicaid overcharges
AUGUSTA -- A new federal audit says Maine overcharged the Medicaid program, which is funded jointly by the state and federal governments, by $44.2 million in 2002 and 2003 and the state should reimburse the federal government $29.7 million for its share. But state officials insist that Maine's Bureau of Child and Family Services calculated the costs correctly so the state does not owe the federal government a refund.
Jail readyto staff up
AUGUSTA -- Uncooperative inmates and double shifts are part of the job for Kennebec County sheriff's deputies, but relief is in sight now that the hiring of 16 new corrections officers has been approved.
Maine courtsstumble online
If you want to see a document from a case in Maine's court system, you have to visit the appropriate county courthouse, wait in line and review the hard copy. In some instances, you need a docket number or other information to find the file.
Editorials:
Historic sitesbill is investmentin Maine's future
The sight of empty brick mills and other old industrial buildings -- windows broken, pigeons perched on the roof -- is all too commonplace in Maine. Across the state, these symbols of our state's vibrant past have been abandoned and deemed too expensive for developers to rehabilitate. And when they lie unused and deteriorating, they can suck the life from their towns and cities.
JIM BRUNELLE : Lawmakers need spirit ofJanuary to conquer problems
This is my time of year, the season of optimism and cycle of the fresh start.
MORNING SENTINTEL:
Maine courts moving to put records online
If you want to see a document from a case in Maine's court system, you have to visit the appropriate county courthouse, wait in line and review the hard copy. In some instances, you need a docket number or other information to find the file.
EDITORIAL: Historic sites bill is investment in Maine's future
Veteran: Care received at Togus is 'excellent'
SUN JOURNAL:
Firefighters get grants from feds
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced Wednesday it has awarded $869,626 in grants to nine Maine fire departments. The money is provided through the "Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program," a news release from U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, D-Maine, stated.
LTE: Crisis centers need funding
Gov. Baldacci recently curtailed $38 million to balance the state budget, including money earmarked by the Legislature for the prevention of sexual and domestic violence initiatives.
MPBN:
Snowfall Strains Municipal Budgets Statewide
It's been snowing in Maine--more than usual for this time of year. According to the National Weather Service, Portland residents shoveled and plowed nearly 40 inches of snow in December, making it the city's 3rd snowiest December on record. Barbara Cariddi reports.
Feds To Cut Drug Enforcement Funding To Maine
At a time when Maine is seeing more drug-related homicides - five in 2007- and more drug related violence than ever before, the federal government is slashing funds used to support the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency and drug prosecutors in district attorneys' offices around the state. The cuts are not unique to Maine, but as Susan Sharon reports, a state budget shortfall and other fiscal contraints are likely to make it even more challenging to fund Maine's war on drugs.
Maine Legislature Opens Its Doors For Business
Maine lawmakers returned to the State House today vowing to make finances their top priority as they weigh a budget deficit totalling 95 million dollars over the next two years. A little more than a third of that have will have to be closed prior to the end of the fiscal year in June, and lawmakers are gearing up for some intense debate over how to achieve those savings. A.J. Higgins reports.
THE TIMES RECORD:
'Big box' study law scrutinized A law passed in 2007 designed to make it tougher for big-box stores to come into town and take business away from local retailers will be up for discussion again in 2008, with an amendment proposed to allow communities to opt out of the new rule.
Clipped wingsMaine's tax policy reads more like political satire every day, but it's no laughing matter. It's embarrassing.
COURIER-GAZETTE:
'Kiddie' tax grows up
If you had a plan to shift some of your tax burden to your youngster, it's time to consider devising a Plan B. Due to Congressional action last year that officially extended childhood from age 14 to age 18 for purposes of calculating tax on invested income, the so-called "kiddie tax" is growing up.
THE ELLSWORTH AMERICAN:
Local Control Battle Looms In Augusta
AUGUSTA — With legislators returning this week to continue their debate on the new school consolidation law, expect a battle over allowing local school committees to maintain control over their kindergarten through grade 8 schools in newly formed "super unions."
EDITORIAL: The Consolidation Debacle
BLOGS:
As Maine Goes: Dem Consensus on Redistribution of Income"There's a real Democratic consensus now," said Rep. Barney Frank. The "reality of stagnant income for most Americans" is shaping Democratic priorities. "What you've got, essentially, is a movement on the Democratic side [toward] the view that growth alone is not enough, and concern about the distribution of income has to be part of the equation."
As Maine Goes: Bye Bye, Light Bulb Just like that--like flipping a switch--Congress and the president banned incandescent light bulbs last month. OK, they did not exactly ban them. But the energy bill passed by Congress and signed by President Bush sets energy-efficiency standards for light bulbs that traditional incandescent bulbs cannot meet.
Maine Web Report: Phase 2 of the Baldacci Tourism Marketing PlanGovernor Baldacci's efforts to accelerate a small-business diaspora continue. This time, Baldacci's economic stormtroopers are trying to stamp out the last vestiges of potential tourism revenue from airfield hangers across the state. Here's the AP report:
Turn Maine Blue: Portland ME Schools and Birth Control--UpdateThe right wing made two attempts to challenge this, and both have failed.
Turn Maine Blue: Open ThreadMaine Today is reporting that Maine has joined California in suing the EPA over its recent ruling to not grant a waiver that would set a higher NOx standard than that of the Fed.
Maine News: "Poll: If the election were held today, who would you vote for in the Maine Senate Race? (Alphabetical)" As of Wednesday, January 2 at 11:30 pm, the results of the poll were as follows:Laurie Dobson 70%Tom Allen 25%Susan Collins 3%
EarthNews: EPA approves Northeast states' mercury plan Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Joseph Lieberman (I-Conn.), have called for stronger federal regulation of mercury.
2 Jan 08 January, USA National Stalking Awareness Month Washington, DC U.S. Senators Joseph R. Biden, Jr. (D-DE) and Susan Collins (R-ME) introduced a resolution designating January as National Stalking Awareness Month.
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
Maine News for Wednesday, January 2, 2008
PRESS HERALD:
From Today:
MAINE VOICES: Allen may be misreading discontent over warIraq doesn't seem to have been the driving issue for Maine voters in 2006, and likely won't be this year.
Petitions for recall election fall shortThree Portland School Committee members appear likely to withstand an effort to remove them from office for their support of a controversial birth-control measure.
Rise in number of Maine drug killings worries policeA shootout in which a man was gunned down over a drug debt in a Saco parking lot underscores an alarming trend: drug killings increased in Maine in 2007.
EDITORIAL: Situation in Somalia calls for humanitarian aid -- and caution — Competing rallies by Somali refugees in Portland recently carried a message to policy-makers: There's no easy solution to the current fighting in Somalia, and not every Somali thinks the return of Islamist rule is the best guarantee of progress.
EDITORIAL: Towns should pay for seawall upgrades themselves Federal disaster funds should be used to repair damage, not make improvements.
LTE: Plum Creek plan a quality investmentI am writing on behalf of Raft Maine, an association of professional white-water rafting outfitters, in support of the Plum Creek concept plan.
LTE: Feed-in tariff law would help cut cost of electricity Maine can produce clean, green electricity and take a step toward energy independence.
From January 1, 2008:
EDITORIAL: U.N. force may be too small to stop violence in DarfurThe Sudanese government's limits could hamper a peacekeeping mission.
EDITORIAL: Time for new starts and old businessMaine's elected officials will be busy finishing the work left over from 2007.
MAINE VOICES: State needs to rebuild transportation bureaucraciesWidening roads is an outdated solution to this century's problems, and doesn't serve Mainers.
BANGOR DAILY:
New federal budget slashes MDEA fundsPolice across the state are reeling from a huge cut in federal funds used to pay for the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency, a cut that some believe threatens the ability of law enforcement to wage any sort of significant war on drugs.
Bucksport seeks new sources of energy In an effort to counter rising energy costs, the town of Bucksport is set to look at ways to produce and distribute its own lower-cost power using wind, natural gas, tidal power or a combination of those sources.
EDITORIAL: Disrespecting Ron PaulRon Paul is the Rodney Dangerfield of Republican presidential candidates: He can't get no respect, especially from the media.
Steve Cartwright: The train solutionThe haunting, wistful whistle of the Maine Eastern Railroad drifts three miles from the crossing to my house. It's a pleasant sound, and a reminder that midcoast Mainers are missing a good bet.
LTEs: Shortsighted cuts; Lay off sick leave
KENNEBEC JOURNAL:
Lawmakers back to work today AUGUSTA -- Five new lawmakers, including Pat Jones of Mount Vernon, will be sworn in today as the Legislature begins the 2008 session.
System angers soldierVisit to Togus failsto provide pain help RANDOLPH -- U.S. Army Cpl. Travis Berry was in pain and needed to refill his prescription.
First Alfond grant goes to Waterville baby WATERVILLE -- Gabriella May Frain entered the world just two hours into the new year and already she has $500 saved for her college education.
New parents facedaunting costs Congratulations! The child has arrived. But did you plan for the cost of raising that kid?
MORNING SENTINEL:
COLUMN: Consolidation turns out to be enemy of freedom Local control is the casualty of consolidation. Your voice is being muted; your influence is waning. Bigger is better. Small is no longer beautiful.
COLUMN: Another way to solve consolidation problems LTE: Foreign policy decisions by U.S. shameful
SUN JOURNAL:
In N.H., same-sex couples' wait ends Dozens of gay and lesbian couples celebrated the arrival of civil unions in New Hampshire in the early moments of New Year's Day, bundling up against below-freezing temperatures for a group ceremony as soon as the unions became legal after midnight.
Primary system has U.S. fed upCONCORD, N.H. - All eyes may be on Iowa and New Hampshire, but many of them are rolling.
COLUMNIST: Bhutto's death a warning; will anyone heed it? On Friday, the day of Benazir Bhutto's burial in her ancestral village, Pakistanis were still struggling to grasp that she was dead.
LTE: We don't need border wallPeople may not realize that the U.S. government wants to build a wall from California to Texas, along the border with Mexico, to keep out illegal aliens. History has shown that high walls have not kept the intended people out.
LTE: We must get involved in DarfurWhen it became clear that the Nazis were responsible for the deaths of millions of Jewish people, the world was horrified. Everyone wished there could have been intervention before this tragedy occurred. Yet today, something reminiscent of the Holocaust is unfolding before our very eyes.
keepMEcurrent
Will merged districts keep local school boards? Stay tunedThere will be a battle over allowing some local school committees to maintain control over their kindergarten-Grade 8 schools in newly formed regional school units when legislators return this week to continue their debate on the new school consolidation law.
Laws governing big-box development could be tweaked A law passed in 2007 designed to make it tougher for big-box stores to come into town and take business away from local retailers will be up for discussion again in 2008, with an amendment proposed to allow communities to opt out of the new rule.
PORTSMOUTH HERALD:
Low fuel assistance funds may leave some Mainers in coldFor 26 years, The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) has helped low-income residents curb high energy bills for 26 years, but this year may be different.
KENNEBEC JOURNAL:
SYSTEM ANGERS SOLDIER: Visit to Togus fails to provide pain help U.S. Army Cpl. Travis Berry was in pain and needed to refill his prescription. So his grandfather, Charles Berry of West Gardiner, drove him to the nearby veterans hospital at Togus. But officials there last week refused to refill his grandson's medication because he is an active-duty soldier, the elder Berry said. They also declined to help him find another way to get more medicine.
BLOGS:
As Maine Goes: ME's Subprime Foreclosure Rate Forecast at 22.8 PercentA Senate committee recently estimated that Maine has 24,460 outstanding subprime loans and expects 5,583 to end up in foreclosure between July of this year and the end of 2009. While the raw number of expected foreclosures here is tiny compared to California (191,144 foreclosures expected) and Florida (157,341), Maine's foreclosure rate on subprime loans is forecast to be 22.8 percent, above a national average of 18 percent.
Turn Maine Blue: How not to announce a candidacyFrom my e-mail today. This was sent to every county officer an e-mail could be found for across the state, it looks like.
White Noise Insanity: Ralph Nader throws his support to John Edwards?
LAWRENCE JOURNAL WORLD AND NEWS
Bill a threat to civil libertiesAs the media daily reports government abuses of individual civil and constitutional rights in the name of the "war against terrorism," and as the now Democratic-controlled Congress continues to hold public hearings on the worst of these abuses, a new threat to the civil liberties of Americans quietly wends its way through the halls of Congress.
From Today:
MAINE VOICES: Allen may be misreading discontent over warIraq doesn't seem to have been the driving issue for Maine voters in 2006, and likely won't be this year.
Petitions for recall election fall shortThree Portland School Committee members appear likely to withstand an effort to remove them from office for their support of a controversial birth-control measure.
Rise in number of Maine drug killings worries policeA shootout in which a man was gunned down over a drug debt in a Saco parking lot underscores an alarming trend: drug killings increased in Maine in 2007.
EDITORIAL: Situation in Somalia calls for humanitarian aid -- and caution — Competing rallies by Somali refugees in Portland recently carried a message to policy-makers: There's no easy solution to the current fighting in Somalia, and not every Somali thinks the return of Islamist rule is the best guarantee of progress.
EDITORIAL: Towns should pay for seawall upgrades themselves Federal disaster funds should be used to repair damage, not make improvements.
LTE: Plum Creek plan a quality investmentI am writing on behalf of Raft Maine, an association of professional white-water rafting outfitters, in support of the Plum Creek concept plan.
LTE: Feed-in tariff law would help cut cost of electricity Maine can produce clean, green electricity and take a step toward energy independence.
From January 1, 2008:
EDITORIAL: U.N. force may be too small to stop violence in DarfurThe Sudanese government's limits could hamper a peacekeeping mission.
EDITORIAL: Time for new starts and old businessMaine's elected officials will be busy finishing the work left over from 2007.
MAINE VOICES: State needs to rebuild transportation bureaucraciesWidening roads is an outdated solution to this century's problems, and doesn't serve Mainers.
BANGOR DAILY:
New federal budget slashes MDEA fundsPolice across the state are reeling from a huge cut in federal funds used to pay for the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency, a cut that some believe threatens the ability of law enforcement to wage any sort of significant war on drugs.
Bucksport seeks new sources of energy In an effort to counter rising energy costs, the town of Bucksport is set to look at ways to produce and distribute its own lower-cost power using wind, natural gas, tidal power or a combination of those sources.
EDITORIAL: Disrespecting Ron PaulRon Paul is the Rodney Dangerfield of Republican presidential candidates: He can't get no respect, especially from the media.
Steve Cartwright: The train solutionThe haunting, wistful whistle of the Maine Eastern Railroad drifts three miles from the crossing to my house. It's a pleasant sound, and a reminder that midcoast Mainers are missing a good bet.
LTEs: Shortsighted cuts; Lay off sick leave
KENNEBEC JOURNAL:
Lawmakers back to work today AUGUSTA -- Five new lawmakers, including Pat Jones of Mount Vernon, will be sworn in today as the Legislature begins the 2008 session.
System angers soldierVisit to Togus failsto provide pain help RANDOLPH -- U.S. Army Cpl. Travis Berry was in pain and needed to refill his prescription.
First Alfond grant goes to Waterville baby WATERVILLE -- Gabriella May Frain entered the world just two hours into the new year and already she has $500 saved for her college education.
New parents facedaunting costs Congratulations! The child has arrived. But did you plan for the cost of raising that kid?
MORNING SENTINEL:
COLUMN: Consolidation turns out to be enemy of freedom Local control is the casualty of consolidation. Your voice is being muted; your influence is waning. Bigger is better. Small is no longer beautiful.
COLUMN: Another way to solve consolidation problems LTE: Foreign policy decisions by U.S. shameful
SUN JOURNAL:
In N.H., same-sex couples' wait ends Dozens of gay and lesbian couples celebrated the arrival of civil unions in New Hampshire in the early moments of New Year's Day, bundling up against below-freezing temperatures for a group ceremony as soon as the unions became legal after midnight.
Primary system has U.S. fed upCONCORD, N.H. - All eyes may be on Iowa and New Hampshire, but many of them are rolling.
COLUMNIST: Bhutto's death a warning; will anyone heed it? On Friday, the day of Benazir Bhutto's burial in her ancestral village, Pakistanis were still struggling to grasp that she was dead.
LTE: We don't need border wallPeople may not realize that the U.S. government wants to build a wall from California to Texas, along the border with Mexico, to keep out illegal aliens. History has shown that high walls have not kept the intended people out.
LTE: We must get involved in DarfurWhen it became clear that the Nazis were responsible for the deaths of millions of Jewish people, the world was horrified. Everyone wished there could have been intervention before this tragedy occurred. Yet today, something reminiscent of the Holocaust is unfolding before our very eyes.
keepMEcurrent
Will merged districts keep local school boards? Stay tunedThere will be a battle over allowing some local school committees to maintain control over their kindergarten-Grade 8 schools in newly formed regional school units when legislators return this week to continue their debate on the new school consolidation law.
Laws governing big-box development could be tweaked A law passed in 2007 designed to make it tougher for big-box stores to come into town and take business away from local retailers will be up for discussion again in 2008, with an amendment proposed to allow communities to opt out of the new rule.
PORTSMOUTH HERALD:
Low fuel assistance funds may leave some Mainers in coldFor 26 years, The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) has helped low-income residents curb high energy bills for 26 years, but this year may be different.
KENNEBEC JOURNAL:
SYSTEM ANGERS SOLDIER: Visit to Togus fails to provide pain help U.S. Army Cpl. Travis Berry was in pain and needed to refill his prescription. So his grandfather, Charles Berry of West Gardiner, drove him to the nearby veterans hospital at Togus. But officials there last week refused to refill his grandson's medication because he is an active-duty soldier, the elder Berry said. They also declined to help him find another way to get more medicine.
BLOGS:
As Maine Goes: ME's Subprime Foreclosure Rate Forecast at 22.8 PercentA Senate committee recently estimated that Maine has 24,460 outstanding subprime loans and expects 5,583 to end up in foreclosure between July of this year and the end of 2009. While the raw number of expected foreclosures here is tiny compared to California (191,144 foreclosures expected) and Florida (157,341), Maine's foreclosure rate on subprime loans is forecast to be 22.8 percent, above a national average of 18 percent.
Turn Maine Blue: How not to announce a candidacyFrom my e-mail today. This was sent to every county officer an e-mail could be found for across the state, it looks like.
White Noise Insanity: Ralph Nader throws his support to John Edwards?
LAWRENCE JOURNAL WORLD AND NEWS
Bill a threat to civil libertiesAs the media daily reports government abuses of individual civil and constitutional rights in the name of the "war against terrorism," and as the now Democratic-controlled Congress continues to hold public hearings on the worst of these abuses, a new threat to the civil liberties of Americans quietly wends its way through the halls of Congress.
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